Philadelphia, PA - Get ready for the next round of delicious battles, cheesesteak fans! The first round of the 2024 March Cheesesteak Madness Judges' Bracket is complete, and the competition is heating up. With surprise upsets and strong contenders, the race to crown this year's champion is wide open.
5th Annual Philadelphia March Cheesesteak Madness - Voting Page
Philly Region: A Mix of Favorites and Fresh Faces
The Philly Region saw a few familiar names advance, including past champion Tony & Nick's and the ever-popular John's Roast Pork. Representing neighborhood spots and chef-driven twists, Cafe Carmela, Dattilo's Delicatessen, The Sidecar Bar & Grille, Callahan's Grille, SQ Philip's, and Avenue Steaks proved equally victorious. However, a surprising early exit of a fan-favorite due to a burnt cheesesteak shows that even top contenders can't afford a single misstep.
NJ/DE Region: Newcomers Make Their Mark
The NJ/DE Region promises thrilling matchups, with four newcomers to Cheesesteak Madness scoring first-round victories. Lillo's Tomato Pies, a finalist from last year, faces a tough road ahead, while Mama's Meatballs & Pizzeria, Ry & Howie's, Brynn Bradley, and Nick's Pizza all have a shot at claiming regional glory. Don't underestimate the veterans, though – Donkey's Place, Scalessa's 'My Way' Old School Italian Kitchen & Union Street Pub remain formidable contenders.
Delco Dominance & Newcomers Shake Up the 'Other Counties'
The "Delco+6" Region showcases the dominance of Delaware County but with a twist! While heavy hitters like Tony's of West Reading and Lorenzo's Steaks & Hoagies advanced, four out of six newcomers to this region also earned victories. Look for Marrone's Deli, Wolf's Superior Sandwiches, Pop's Pizzeria, and Centrella's Deli & Italian Market to bring the heat, potentially upsetting the established order.
Other Counties Region: Full of Surprises!
Cheesesteak Madness is about more than just classic joints. The Other Counties Region proves it! This diverse bracket includes a spot visited by George Washington, a brewery, a bakery known for other treats, and even a place reluctant to embrace its cheesesteak fame. DaVinci's Brick Oven Pizza, Verona Pizza, Workhorse Brewing, Johnny's Pizza of Bryn Mawr, Goombas Pizzaria, the Trappe Tavern, DiBruno Bros, and McNally's Tavern are poised for some genuinely unique battles.
What's Next?
The judges aren't the only ones who decide the Cheesesteak Madness Champions!
- Vote for the People's Champion: Head to PhillyBite.com and vote for your favorite daily.
- Watch the Judges' Journey: Follow the action and see all the mouthwatering matchups on the March Cheesesteak Madness website.
- Show Your Cheesesteak Love: Gear up with The Cheesey Life appare
Get Ready for Even More Cheesesteak Excitement!
Remember, you can find all 1,100+ cheesesteak reviews by Jim Pappas (and a handy searchable guide) on his website, PhiladelphiaCheesesteakAdventure.com.
The first round was just an appetizer! The quest for the 2024 March Cheesesteak Madness crown is far from over. Who will make it to the final rounds? Surprises are guaranteed, and every delicious bite counts!
